Thursday, February 23, 2012

Jeremy Lin and Tommy Amaker

The whole sports world continues to be enamored with Jeremy Lin’s performance in the NBA.

It has been enjoyable to research Lin’s background. There were Facebook clips the other day where Lin talked about his faith in Jesus Christ. That was interesting and encouraging.

In one of the clips, he also talked about his collegiate coach at Harvard—Tommy Amaker. Lin praised Amaker’s coaching ability. No doubt, Amaker helped Lin become a better player and has played a part in Lin’s NBA success.

Amaker is quieting putting together a solid Harvard program. Amaker has led the Crimson to three straight 20 or more win seasons. Currently, Harvard is 20-2 and 6-0 in the Ivy League. Harvard has visions of the NCAA tournament.

Amaker was a star guard at Duke University. His Division I coaching career took off at Seton Hall where he guided the Pirates to a 68-55 mark and a Sweet 16 NCAA appearance. The Seton Hall success led him to Michigan. Amaker had reasonable success with the Wolverines at 108-84 but was fired. But Harvard has seemingly resurrected his career. I wouldn’t be surprised even if takes another top Division I job sometime in the near future.

But know this: Lin and Amaker are cheering for each other. Both have learned from each other. Both have preserved. Both are great, feel good stories.

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